~AEA Public Library

Program evaluators who choose to become independent consultants will find that the intersection of business and research can offer tremendous personal reward but it can be both challenging and intimidating unless they have the simple but important skills required to be successful. This practical workshop addresses the unique issues faced by individuals who want to become independent consultants, who have recently taken the plunge or who need to re-tool their professional practice.

Participants will have the opportunity to explore four different skill sets that are required to support a successful evaluation consulting practice:

1. The personal characteristics required to be an independent consultant;
2. The entrepreneurial skills needed to get started and obtain research contracts;
3. The management skills involved in running a small business while focusing on your research;
4. The steps involved in managing your consulting projects.

You will learn:

• If consulting is an appropriate career choice for you;
• How to break into the evaluation consulting market and stay there;
• How to manage your small business and still have time for your research;
• What steps are involved in an evaluation consulting engagement;
• What field-based skills can to enhance your evaluation practice.

Gail V. Barrington is an independent consultant who started her consulting firm, Barrington Research Group, Inc. in 1985. She has conducted over 100 program evaluation studies and has made a significant contribution to the field of evaluation through her practice, writing, teaching, training, mentoring and service. In 2008 she won the Canadian Evaluation Society award for her Contribution to Evaluation in Canada.